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OPINION

Women of color still battle glass ceiling

Women of color continue to experience wide racial disparities in the workplace. In an effort to advance their careers, women of color are often confronted with a host of oppressing complexities, ultimately hindering ascension to leadership. Published literature on leadership largely excludes women of color and their experiences in such roles. The literature highlighting women of color largely uses the deficit theory, ignoring the value of illuminating women of color who have successfully penetrated the glass ceiling.

Women of color are underprivileged by way of both their gender and race. White women have a privilege of race, and while men of color are often oppressed by race, they are still sometimes privileged by their gender.

While many aspiring leaders are afforded the opportunity to take the lead on high profile work projects, creating a platform to highlight their talent and skills, women of color are often overlooked and refused such opportunities.

Upon landing an executive role, women of color are often faced with the difficulties of nestling in to an unwelcoming culture. The dominance of whiteness is so overpowering they find themselves second guessing everything, including their choice of hairstyles, in an effort to fit “the look” of a professional woman. Women of color often experience feelings of isolation within the workplace and oftenput forth a concerted effort to adjust their subjugated selves, “shifting” to feel accepted by their white counterparts.

With a real lack of mentorship and networks, women of color are faced with higher demands for success. They must enter the arena with a strong sense of confidence and purpose because the weak showing among women of color in leadership can largely be attributed to the institutional racism that remains a source of unjust treatment. The YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County will be discussing this and more at our Stand Against Racism Conference on Thursday at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center.